sort out issues

USAGE SUMMARY

'sort out issues' is correct and can be used in written English.
It can be used as a way to express the idea of resolving or dealing with problems or difficulties. For example: "We need to sort out the issue of the broken window before it gets any worse."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

The company recently raised $775 million, which Mr. Gossage said "gives us the time we need to sort out issues and implement the right plan".

The New York Times

"When we say good-bye at the end of the programme we want our clients to know how to sort out issues for themselves," Claire says, "and to know where to go for the right kind of help".

The Guardian

Maharashtra: Addressing the much-debated crackdown on nightlife in Mumbai in recent months, Chief Minister Prithviraj Chavan on Thursday said the government was trying to "sort out" issues related to letting restaurants and bars stay open at night, according to a report on the Times of India site.

The New York Times

Daisy Guttridge, a first-year student at Kingston University, says that while her parents were supportive throughout the process, "I actually preferred ringing up Ucas to sort out issues myself rather than asking them to ring, I guess to establish a sense of independence".

The Guardian

Meantime, there is no central repository of information or even a state Web site with such basic information as the zoning policies of each town — something that neighboring states like Massachusetts have — and little state leadership to help towns sort out issues of growth.

The New York Times

Demestichas et al. [45] has focused on integrated radio services to sort out issues of service configuration in heavy traffic scenario using mathematical modeling.

EURASIP Journal on Wireless Communications and Networking

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

I think frankly we need to get on with sorting out issues and challenges in relation to policing, having constructive dialogue with the Police Federation in relation to policing.

The Guardian

There are any number of sites on the Internet to help you sort out these issues.

Forbes

Congress has not even begun to sort out the issues.

The New York Times

On the other hand, it's a useful way for journalists to sort out these issues".

The New York Times

To contend, he must sort out his issues on the greens.

The New York Times - Sports

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "sort out issues" in your writing, ensure the context clearly defines which specific issues are being addressed to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of writing "We need to sort out issues," specify "We need to sort out issues with the budget."

Common error

Avoid using "sort out issues" as a generic placeholder for problem-solving. Instead, provide context and specific details about the issues being addressed to give your writing more clarity and impact. For instance, rather than stating, "The team will sort out issues," specify, "The team will address technical issues and resource allocation challenges."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "sort out issues" functions as a phrasal verb, typically used to describe the act of resolving or clarifying problems. As noted by Ludwig, it is considered correct for use in written English. Examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its use across various contexts, from business to personal relationships.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

21%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

14%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "sort out issues" is a versatile phrasal verb used to describe the process of resolving or clarifying problems. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. While it appears most frequently in news and media contexts, it's also suitable for scientific and business communications. To enhance clarity, always specify the issues being addressed. Avoid overuse and opt for more specific alternatives like "resolve problems" or "address concerns" when appropriate. By following these guidelines, you can effectively use "sort out issues" in your writing to convey problem-solving and clarification efforts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

resolve problems

Focuses on finding solutions to identified problems.

resolve conflicts

Addresses incompatibilities or oppositions.

address concerns

Emphasizes dealing with specific points of worry or anxiety.

iron out difficulties

Suggests smoothing out inconsistencies or disagreements.

rectify matters

Implies correcting something that is wrong or unjust.

straighten out matters

Indicates making something tidy or organized, often after a period of confusion.

settle disputes

Specifically refers to resolving disagreements or conflicts.

untangle complexities

Highlights the act of simplifying or clarifying complicated situations.

fix snags

Focuses on resolving unexpected or hidden obstacles.

clarify ambiguities

Emphasizes removing uncertainty or confusion.

FAQs

How can I use "sort out issues" in a sentence?

You can use "sort out issues" to indicate resolving problems or difficulties, such as "The company needs to "sort out issues" with its supply chain" or "We are working to "sort out issues" before the deadline".

What are some alternatives to "sort out issues"?

Alternatives include "resolve problems", "address concerns", or "iron out difficulties", depending on the context.

Is "sort out issues" formal or informal?

"Sort out issues" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, although more formal alternatives may be preferred in certain business or academic settings.

What's the difference between "sort out issues" and "solve problems"?

"Sort out issues" implies a process of clarifying and organizing before resolving, whereas "solve problems" directly suggests finding solutions to existing problems. "Sort out issues" can involve a broader scope of activities that could be organizational and strategic, not simply focused on problem resolution.